14 Tips on How to Speed Through the Airport Smoothly

The 3-1-1 rule (3 oz per container inside a transparent plastic bag) tells you how to pack liquids to get through the security checks at the airport. There are many other ways of making sure that your airport experience is smooth, and one of them is to be ready for any situation.

We at Bright Side found 14 tips that will help you become an expert, just like George Clooney’s character Ryan Bingham from Up in the Air who was a very, very frequent flyer: “Never get behind people traveling with infants. I’ve never seen a stroller collapse in less than 20 minutes. Old people are worse. Their bodies are littered with hidden metal, and they never seem to appreciate how little time they have left.”

14. Become a member of a frequent flyer program.

When joining a frequent flyer program, there are many benefits — like a separate line at check-in. One of the world’s leading airlines has family check-in counters specifically designated to ease the process for passengers with children.

13. Join TSA Pre✓® or a similar security service.

If you are traveling in or out of the US, it’s a good idea to find out if you can apply for TSA Pre✓®. By becoming a member of this program, you can get through security and document control much faster than most other travelers.

11. Know the airport layout.

Airports are really big nowadays, so knowing how everything is laid out inside beforehand is a must to save yourself time. Getting an airport app can solve this problem as they usually have all the locations indicated there.

10. Pack carry-on bags lightly, and follow the 3-1-1 rule.

Pack your carry-on bag lightly, and make sure that all your liquids have been properly stored in a zip-up bag and do not exceed 3.4 oz per container (the 3-1-1 rule). Also, check which food you can easily bring into the cabin. Take out all metal objects from your pockets while passing through the full-body scanners.

7. How to get through the check-in and security points quickly:

If you’ve done all of the above, then getting through the security and ID checks will not take too much time. However, if the line seems too long, look for the TSA agent that works faster than others — join that line. Also, make sure you schedule your trip for a day or 2 before national holidays or the weekend as most people fly at that time.

Flying in high heels is not advised along with boots that are difficult to take off. Make sure your clothing is appropriate both for the plane and the security check. Easily removed pieces of clothing are the best choice.

5. Stay calm and focused.

If you are nervous, try to stay calm and focused. Otherwise, it might lead to an unexpected delay in your trip. If you feel that you cannot control your nerves, tell the agents or anyone working at the airport. They might make the security checks easier for you.

3. What to do when your flight is delayed or canceled:

Weather, airline workers on strike, natural disasters — there are many reasons for your flight to be delayed. If and when this happens, be sure to check with your airline about any benefits you may get from such a situation: a free stay in an airport hotel, a meal voucher, or even a full refund. To avoid big delays, try to fly from an airport that has a low delay status.

2. When making a transfer:

Sometimes getting to your destination means using not one but a couple of flights. If the transfer happens at a foreign airport, make sure you know the transfer procedures. Some airports will ask you to go through security and passport control once again; others require you to use a train between the terminals. Before flying, check exactly what you must do before transferring.

1. Wrap gifts after arriving at your destination.

If you travel during the holidays and have gifts that you want to take on the airplane, make sure you bring them as they are: unwrapped. The security agents may ask you to remove the gift wrap and show them the inside of the box.

We hope that you will now be able to save time at any airport in the world by using the above tips. If you are a frequent flyer, share with us your advice on how to get through all the checks in the comments section below.